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- Publisher: Hamad bin Khalifa University Press (HBKU Press)
- Source: Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum Proceedings, Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum Volume 2012 Issue 1, Oct 2012, Volume 2012, BMP66
oa Effect of social and environmental factors on the prevalence of autism in Qatar
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a group of neuro-developmental disabilities common in childhood characterized by impairments in social interaction, communication skills, and patterns of activities. Background: The symptoms of ASDs typically are present before age 3 years and often are accompanied by abnormalities in cognitive functioning, learning, attention, and sensory processing. A formal diagnosis is generally not made until the age of five. The vast majority of cases of autism are idiopathic, the best scientific evidence available to us today points toward a potential for various combinations of factors, namely multiple genetic components and certain environmental and socio-economic factors. Timing of exposure during the child's development (before, during or after birth) may also play a role in the development or final presentation of the disorder. Objectives: To estimate the effect of certain socio-economic and other risk factors on the prevalence of autism in Qatar. Methods: The target population for this study are children diagnosed with autism attending the Shafallah Center for children with special needs. Clinical evaluation is conducted by a developmental psychologist, and/or pediatrician, it includes a medical, developmental, and behavioral history; a standard physical and neurological examination, In addition, the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI-R), and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-G (ADOS-G) will be administered. Results: Preliminary analysis of 171 subjects showed the highest prevalence among age group 7-14 years (61%). Male/female ratio was 82%/18%, which is around 5/1. Other factors like consanguinity, education, and family income found to have an effect on the prevalence of the disease in Qatar. Conclusions: Obtaining a reliable estimate is important in planning for providing the best health care and educational services needed to improve the overall outcome of autism in Qatar.